Back taxes, often called prior-year returns, are simply federal or state tax returns that weren’t filed by their original deadlines. Some of the reasons for missing a filing include changes in one’s life, misplaced documents, or mistaken notions about terms and conditions of income thresholds. If you are wondering how to file past years taxes, it is easier than you might think once you know the steps of filing.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Some good reasons for filing tax returns are:
Interest & Penalties: Late filing and late payment are penalized by the IRS, and the penalties increase every month.
Refunds and Credits: Any refunds available, as well as credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit, will simply be lost forever if you really don’t file your prior years’ taxes on time.
Compliant & Peace of Mind: Good standing now is crucial for consideration for future refunds, Social Security benefits, and loan approvals.
If you’re asking yourself, “How can you file taxes from previous years?”, or looking for tips on how to file past taxes without stress, it’s straightforward when you break it down.
Are you confident your business tax filings are fully optimized and compliant?
Who Should File Past-Year Returns
You should file prior year taxes if you:
Even if you believe you owe nothing, filing is smart. It stops IRS substitute returns that often overstate tax liability and ensures accurate tax compliance. So, if you’re wondering how to file taxes past years or how to do previous years taxes, it’s worth taking action.
How Far Back Can You File Taxes?
The usual question asked is: How many years can you file back taxes or how far back can you file taxes? The IRS says:
- Refund Window: You have three years after the original deadline to claim a refund. Example: a 2021 return due April 2022 must be filed by April 2025 to receive any refund.
- Compliance Window: To be considered “current,” the IRS typically expects six years of filings.
- Older Years: If you owe taxes, there is no statute of limitations. The IRS can still request those returns.
Whether you need to do previous years taxes for three years or ten, start with the oldest year and work forward.
Step-by-Step: File Prior-Year Federal Taxes
Many people ask, “How do I file past years taxes?” or “How to file previous years taxes?” Here’s the clear sequence:
1. Gather Documents
Collect W-2s, 1099s, and deduction receipts. Missing forms? Order a free wage & income transcript using IRS Form 4506-T.
2. Download the Correct-Year Forms
Each tax year has its own 1040 and schedules on IRS.gov; use the exact year’s form.
3. Prepare Each Return Separately
File one year at a time. Tax software or a professional can guide you on how to file old taxes accurately.
4. Print, Sign, and Mail
Most prior-year returns cannot be e-filed. Mail each return to the IRS address listed for that year.
5. Set Up a Payment Plan if Needed
Even if you can’t pay right away, filing stops late-filing penalties and allows you to request an installment agreement.
Can You E-File or File for Free?
If you’re exploring how to file previous years taxes for free or need details on how to file taxes from previous years electronically:
- E-Filing: Usually limited to the current year and, with select software, the previous year or two. Anything older must be printed and mailed.
- Free Options: IRS Free File Fillable Forms and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) help many taxpayers with how to file taxes past years at no cost.
- Low-Cost Services: Providers such as TurboTax and H&R Block can help a person with a return for a prior year and are good if one wants help but keep tax filing costs minimal.
Do You Have to File Taxes Every Year?
Not necessarily. You might ask, “Do you have to file taxes every year?” The answer depends on your income and filing status. You must file if your income exceeded the IRS threshold for that year.
Below the threshold, it is still wise to file to:
- Protect any potential refunds or credits in the future.
- Start the statute of limitations on IRS audits.
Consistent filing keeps you in good tax compliance and avoids unexpected tax liability.
Earliest You Can File This Year
Wondering when is the earliest you can file taxes? Here’s a quick guide to the earliest and latest key dates.
- IRS Opening Date: Electronic filing usually begins mid-to-late January each year.
- Standard Deadline: The normal due date for federal returns is April 15, though it may shift if that day falls on a weekend or federal holiday.
- Extensions: You can request for an extension until October in exchange for submitting the paperwork; however, any taxes owed are still to be paid by April 15.
- Plan Ahead: The longer you wait, the more sit-until-pay; file now rapid payment to keep yourself away from fraud-risk.
Conclusion and How Orbit Can Help
Getting back on track with unfiled returns may be daunting, but now is the best time to work on ending penalties and getting your refund. Whether you need to file previous years taxes, look for how to file prior year taxes, or find guidance on how to file taxes from previous years for free, Orbit Accountants can help.
We track down missing W-2s and 1099s, prepare proper returns, and negotiate payment plans before the IRS. Call us today for a no-obligation consultation and take complete control of your tax situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I’m missing W-2s or 1099s from old years?
Request an IRS wage and income transcript or contact your former employer or payer for duplicates.
Will I get a refund if I file late for an old year?
Yes, if you file within three years of the original due date. After that, any refund is forfeited.
Can I e-file prior-year returns?
Generally no. Only the current year and sometimes the previous year can be e-filed; older returns must be mailed.
What happens if I never file?
The IRS may file a substitute return without deductions and assess tax plus penalties and interest until you file your own accurate return.
I can’t pay—should I still file?
Absolutely. Filing stops late-filing penalties and lets you request an installment agreement or other relief.
Do I have to file an amendment if I discover an error in my return after I have already mailed it?
Yes. File Form 1040-X to correct mistakes or add overlooked deductions or credits.
How do state returns work for prior years?
Each state sets its own rules and deadlines. Visit your state tax agency’s website for forms and instructions for older years.
What documents should I keep for prior-year filings?
Keep W-2s, 1099s, receipts, and supporting records for at least three years after filing—longer if you claim certain deductions or credits.
Are there free or low-cost ways to get help with old returns?
Yes. IRS Free File, local VITA programs, and inexpensive software applications, including TurboTax and H&R Block, will help you prepare taxes for previous years for a little or no fee.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Orbit Accountants provides professional accounting services tailored to your situation—consult a qualified tax advisor before making decisions.
